For Neon Trees' Tyler Glenn, his solo debut is as political as it is personal. Two years after the singer came out to Rolling Stone and declared himself equally proud of being both gay and a practicing Mormon, his song "Trash" and its accompanying video clearly denounce the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' restrictive, conservative view of same-sex relationships.
In the clip for the biting electro-pop track, Glenn is first seen drinking straight from a liquor bottle, though alcohol is forbidden by Mormonism. As he sings the song, the musician is surrounded by Mormon imagery, including altered portraits of the church's founder, Joseph Smith.
At the time Glenn came out in 2014, he was still a believer in the Mormon church, having been raised in the faith, gone on a mission and continued to be a member of the community in Salt Lake City, where he remains. "I always tried to make being gay and being Mormon work," he says.
"The big problem here is that they claim it's the only truth," he says. "There have been over 40 suicides within the church as a result of this policy. These aren't just grown men and women. Many are children. It's backwards. It's not of God.
People are also saying he does actions/ordinances performed in mormon temples during the video
Lose your religion, sis! Guessing a breakup is on the way
I've only seen bitter ex Mormons post this video on Facebook.
But I guess do what you gotta do to further your new solo career
I'm an ex mormon as well but I'm not bitter and think it's a great church for a lot of people. I just find it an interesting video. And it is interesting how some people go full 180 from devoutly worshiping to becoming bitter alcoholic assholes. I'm just the same person with different beliefs
Didn't know he was gay. I also saw this song on iTunes and didn't know it was by the same guy as the lead singer of this band. Nothing but the truth with the title.
Nothing but the truth with the title.